Optimizing Order Fulfillment with Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs): A Comparative Analysis of Locus Robotics, 6 River Systems, and Fetch Robotics
Executive Summary
The rise of e-commerce and omnichannel retail has accelerated demand for flexible, scalable automation in warehouse operations. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) have emerged as a leading technology to drive efficiency, reduce labor dependency, and improve throughput in picking environments.
This white paper explores three of the most prominent AMR solutions in the market today—Locus Robotics, 6 River Systems (6RS), and Fetch Robotics. We examine their form factors, software capabilities, and ideal applications based on picking methodologies and operational requirements. Drawing from our real-world experience as material handling and integration experts, we also provide throughput benchmarks based on typical use cases in e-commerce and retail distribution centers.
AMRs in the Fulfillment Landscape
Unlike traditional AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), AMRs offer dynamic navigation using onboard sensors and AI to avoid obstacles and optimize travel paths in real-time. They are highly suited to goods-to-person, person-to-goods, and zone-based picking operations—delivering measurable productivity gains without the capital intensity or fixed infrastructure of AS/RS or conveyor-based systems.
Key Players and Platform Overviews
Locus Robotics
Form Factor: LocusBots are sleek, rolling units with onboard totes or containers. Models include the Locus Origin (low-profile for high-speed picking) and Locus Vector (larger payload capacity).
Functionality: Locus uses a person-to-goods methodology. Pickers follow a zone, while bots dynamically queue at pick locations, display instructions via onboard touchscreen, and transport picked items to pack-out.
Software: Cloud-based, real-time dashboards; integrates with WMS; supports heat mapping, labor metrics, and predictive analytics. Known for intuitive UI and fast deployment.
6 River Systems (6RS) – A Shopify Company
Form Factor: “Chuck” is a collaborative cart-based AMR with adjustable shelves and a touchscreen. It operates on natural feature navigation.
Functionality: 6RS supports batch and zone picking, directing workers via Chuck to multiple pick locations. Chuck carries totes or cartons and autonomously moves between pick zones or to outbound consolidation.
Software: Robust AI-driven cloud platform; integrates directly with major WMS platforms. Strong focus on labor optimization and task interleaving.
Fetch Robotics (now part of Zebra Technologies)
Form Factor: Fetch AMRs come in multiple models—from CartConnect for smaller payloads to HMIShelf and Freight100/500 for larger materials handling tasks.
Functionality: Designed for cart transport, replenishment, put-away, and collaborative picking. Fetch is highly modular and flexible—ideal in hybrid environments with both automated and manual flows.
Software: The FetchCore cloud platform offers route optimization, fleet orchestration, and advanced analytics. Not limited to picking—can also support kitting and parts-to-line applications.
Picking Methodologies & Best-Fit Use Cases
| Picking Type | Description | Best AMR Fit | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone-Based Picking | Warehouse divided into zones; workers stay in zones, bots travel between them | Locus, 6RS | Locus for dynamic bot queueing; 6RS for guided Chuck movement |
| Batch Picking | Multiple orders picked at once by a single worker | 6RS | Chuck optimizes multi-order batching and routing |
| Cluster Picking | Picking several orders into grouped totes on the same trip | Locus, 6RS | Efficient pick paths; screen-directed accuracy |
| Wave Picking | Scheduled release of pick orders | Fetch, Locus | Fetch integrates with wave-based systems; Locus manages waves via WMS integration |
| Put-to-Light/Sortation | Post-pick order consolidation by lights or zones | Fetch + Conveyor/Sortation | Fetch excels in interoperation with conveyor and light systems |
Daily Throughput Benchmarks
Throughput can vary based on SKU density, pick complexity, warehouse layout, and labor availability. However, based on typical e-commerce or retail distribution operations:
| Vendor | Bot Count | Pick Rate per Worker per Hour | Typical Daily Throughput | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Locus | 50–100 | 150–200 picks/hr | 60,000–100,000+ picks/day | High scalability; minimal aisle congestion |
| 6RS (Chuck) | 50–80 | 120–150 picks/hr | 40,000–75,000+ picks/day | Excels at batch orders; ergonomic for workers |
| Fetch | 30–60 | Depends on task (transport vs. pick support) | 30,000–60,000+ picks/day | Ideal for hybrid or multipurpose operations |
Key Considerations When Selecting an AMR Solution
Facility Type & Aisle Widths: Locus requires minimal aisle space; Fetch may need wider lanes for larger bots.
Order Profile: High-SKU, small-order environments benefit from Locus; larger order profiles with multiple lines favor 6RS.
Integration Complexity: All platforms integrate with WMS/WES, but Fetch may offer greater flexibility in multi-use environments.
Labor Strategy: AMRs help mitigate labor shortages, but labor planning is still essential. 6RS shines in labor balancing; Locus in labor productivity tracking.
Scalability & ROI: AMRs are modular—ideal for phased deployments. Locus offers rapid ROI in pick-intensive operations.
Why Work with Us
As a trusted system integrator, we bring decades of experience in material handling and automation design. We don’t just sell hardware—we engineer scalable, cost-effective fulfillment solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Our services include:
Automation system design and integration
Preventative Maintenance
Post-implementation support and optimization
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Installation Services
Whether you’re scaling for peak season or future-proofing your operation, we help you navigate the automation landscape with confidence and clarity.
Let’s Build the Future of Fulfillment Together
Choosing the right AMR partner is about more than comparing specs—it’s about understanding your operation, your growth trajectory, and how automation fits into your long-term vision. We’re here to help you design, integrate, and support that vision every step of the way.
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